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Strive Allen Co. opens for business

Lima: The Strive @ CRSI program in Allen Co. opened its doors on September 9 as sixteen individuals entered the newly remodeled property for the first time to attend CRSI’s fourth adult day services program. (Current programs are also located in Champaign, Clark and Hancock Counties.) Another sixteen people will follow suit on September 30. All thirty-two individuals are also receiving CRSI services while living at the Mary Ann Brown (MAB) facility on Mandolin Drive.

To celebrate the occasion, an open house and ribbon-cutting ceremony was held on September 19 in collaboration with the Lima/Allen Co. Chamber of Commerce.

Hannah, consumer advocate, one-on-one with Tina Scarrett, participant

The Strive program offers participants a place to socialize and learn; and “strives” to enhance personal growth, develop skills, maintain a healthy lifestyle and engage in the community.

The program is very much needed in the area according to Esther Baldridge, superintendent of the Allen Co. Board of DD, who spoke at the ribbon-cutting ceremony. She indicated her pleasure in working with CRSI. Noting the well-coordinated services between the agency and the county board she pointed out that CRSI hired some of its MAB staff (familiar to consumers) for the program to make the transition easier.

CRSI purchased the former Beef & Bourbon/Twist & Shout restaurant on Shawnee Road earlier this year. After several construction delays that pushed back opening day, the completed property has been transformed into the perfect setting for the Strive program. The building has undergone major renovations to accommodate individuals with disabilities and all participants can now enjoy a huge, expansive space; complete with wood floors, high ceilings, cheerful decorating, and a large coffee bar.

According to Kelly Buck, Habilitation Director, the hope is to one day open a coffee bar for the community, featuring the Strive coffee brand currently being produced by the Clark Co. program.

The long awaited opening was well worth the wait according to many of the parents, Allen Co. board staff, and chamber/community representatives in attendance during the open house.

For more information about services or employment, contact Kelly Buck kbuck@crsi-oh.com.